-LRB- Mashable -RRB- -- A patent application filed by Apple reveals an interesting possible development of iPad 's Smart Cover , which may get a display of its own down the road .

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The application , originally filed in August 2011 and made public Thursday , describes `` thin flexible display technology '' which can be integrated into the cover . This secondary display , Apple believes , would `` greatly enhance '' the overall functionality of the tablet .

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The concept opens up a lot of possibilities . The secondary display , as described in Apple 's patent application , could simply display notifications related to what 's happening on the iPad -LRB- the name of the movie currently playing , for example -RRB- .

It could also be a full-fledged companion to the main screen , sporting a virtual keyboard or another set of application icons .

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Of course , the patent application does n't mean this concept will ever become a real product , but it 's interesting to see that Apple is entertaining the idea .

What do you think : Would a secondary display be a useful addition to the Smart Cover ? Share your thoughts in the comments .

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Apple files patent hinting at an iPad Smart Cover display , meaning two work surfaces

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Display creates ability to use cover for messaging , movies , icon space , drawing and more

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Display could also include a digital keyboard

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Filing a patent does not mean the cover will ever become a real product